Hardwork and dedication pays off for Winnipeg Jets Local Hockey Hero nominees
Manitoba local hockey superstars were nominated to be voted on and named the Winnipeg Jets Local Hockey Hero for going above and beyond to help others play the game.
The Local Hockey Hero contest, brought to you by Wawanesa Insurance, was the final chance for community members to choose the finalist that best exemplifies their idea of a hockey hero.
Three nominees from the province were chosen as finalists, selected by community members. From March 18 to 25, Manitobans could vote for their preferred local hero. The grand prize package included tickets to a Winnipeg Jets game, an autographed jersey, and a Jets Gear gift card. Additionally, the recipient will be honoured to present the Winnipeg Jets Community Service Award.
Johnny Bestland from Sanford was honoured with the Winnipeg Jets Local Hockey Hero title.
Fellow coach Mackenzie Kabernick nominated Bestland. Bestland is a volunteer coach for Sanford Collegiate Sabre Girls Hockey. His dedication and involvement with the team earned him a nomination.
Bestland was surprised to see he was nominated.
“When you’ve coached this many kids, it is the happiness of everyone that is more important than the actual competition,” said Bestland.
Bestland added that none of his coaching would be possible alone. He explained that it is a team effort from everyone.
Bestland started playing hockey at age six. He instantly fell in love with the sport and continued to play throughout his life. Today, all of Bestland’s daughters also share his love for the game and have been fortunate enough to be coached by their father.
Bestland stepped into the role of coach when his close friend and former hockey mentor, Kelly Kabernick, passed away during the middle of the season.
“Everyone gets wrenches thrown at them in life,” said Bestland. He explained that it was a tough roll to fill, but it was well worth the time.
Bestland helped initiate the Kelly Kabernick Fund in honour of Kelly Kabernick. Funds raised go towards the Sanford Arena.
Bestland loves hockey because it is a team effort.
“We are all working together toward a common goal,” added Bestland.
Bestland is grateful to have been selected as the Winnipeg Jets’ Local Hockey Hero and looks forward to sharing the prize with his family. He is thrilled at the opportunity to teach kids both hockey and life skills.
Fellow hockey parent Angie Beaque nominated Brent Nemeth of Winnipeg. The two first crossed paths seven years ago when their children were on the same team. Beaque also played a crucial role in organizing the Cooper Nemeth Memorial Day game.
Nemeth was surprised by the nomination. He thinks that everyone he works with deserves this recognition.
Nemeth’s nomination was based on his role in establishing and promoting the Cooper Nemeth Memorial Fund, a player assistance program under Hockey Winnipeg. The fund was created in memory of his late son, Cooper Nemeth. Notably, $23,100 was raised at this year’s Cooper Nemeth Memorial Day event held on March 23.
Nemeth has been involved with hockey since he was a kid. He first played the sport and now coaches in the community.
Nemeth loves when former players continue to connect.
“It is a good feeling when they say ‘Hey Coach!’” explained Nemeth.
There is a familial feel Nemeth gains from coaching. “It is about giving back, and I am happy to do that,” he added.
Nemeth congratulated the other nominees.
“All three of us are winners for being nominated,” said Nemeth.
Nemeth is proud of his impact no matter the result.
Brad Tkachyk of Elm Creek was nominated by Chris Miller, a friend and fellow Elm Creek Arena volunteer. Tkachyk frequently volunteers at the Elm Creek Arena. He always wants to do his part and give back to the hockey community he grew up in. “It is a rite of passage to help out in the community,” said Tkachyk.
He explained that volunteers run the rink. It takes an entire team of helpers to keep the hockey spirit alive in Elm Creek.
Tkachyk was surprised to hear he was a finalist for the contest. He thinks every volunteer at the rink deserves special recognition.
Tkachyk has lived in Elm Creek all of his life. He has played hockey in the community since he was young.
Currently, Tkachyk’s four children are all avid hockey players, frequently seen at the Elm Creek Arena.
“I love watching the kids grow up playing the sport,” mentioned Tkachyk.
He explained that it makes him feel good when he sees everyone in the community get together to play hockey. Tkachyk loves uniting with others who share his passion for the sport.
All three nominees love what they do and look forward to seeing where their journey with hockey leads to.
